Peaceful River: 2-Part Choral Octavo
A Partner Song with the Traditional Spiritual "I've Got Peace Like a River"
Arr., with new words and music, by Mary Donnelly and George L. O. Strid
Item: 00-PO-0000907
$2.05
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
A graceful new melody is paired with traditional "I've Got Peace Like a River" in this straightforward partner song arrangement for singers with a limited range. Each voice part need only learn sixteen bars to realize this peace-themed ballad. Great for school and church.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PO-0000907
More about this title
About the Arranger: Mary Donnelly
Mary Donnelly grew up in Reno, Nevada, and initially pursued English and French at the University of Nevada, Reno. While still an undergraduate, she discovered her passion for music education by organizing children's choruses, which inspired her to return to school for formal music certification. She earned a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she focused on integrating the arts across curricula.
Donnelly taught general music and choir in elementary and middle schools throughout the Washoe County School District for three decades before retiring. In 1985, she began collaborating with George L. O. Strid when their principal asked them to write a musical for Reading Week; that project launched a partnership that has produced over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals. She remains active in ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP.
Why we love this
This arrangement honors a beloved spiritual while remaining genuinely accessible to young or developing singers. The partner song structure creates musical interest without requiring complex part-singing, and singers only memorize sixteen bars each, making it realistic for programs with limited rehearsal time or smaller ensembles.
What to expect
Serene and affirming, this piece wraps a familiar melody in contemporary warmth. The partner song creates a sense of conversation between voices, as if two perspectives on peace are speaking to each other.
Who it's for
This octavo serves elementary and middle school choirs, church choirs, and any ensemble with singers still building confidence in part-singing. The limited range and short memorization requirement make it ideal for groups mixing experienced and newer singers.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the two melodies so neither voice dominates; the traditional tune should anchor while the new melody floats above it.
- Let the recorded accompaniment establish the gentle tempo and character before voices enter.
- Ensure clear diction on "peace" throughout, as it anchors the piece's thematic content.
How to use it
Program this as a moment of reflection in spring or year-end concerts, or pair it with other peace-themed repertoire for a thematic set. Its straightforward charm also works well for community events, assemblies, or worship services where accessibility and emotional resonance matter more than technical display.
Skills your students will build
- Singing in two-part harmony with a limited vocal range
- Balancing independent melodic lines while listening to another part
- Quick memorization of short, repetitive phrases
- Interpreting secular spirituals and traditional melodies in contemporary arrangements